MAUI
Best Beaches
Snorkeling
BEST BEACHES FOR
Makena Point - Wailea
Just about every single tour group comes out to Wailea. In fact, one of the most famous drop-off points for snorkeling expeditions is Turtle Town, a section of shallow coral reef about 200 yards from Makena Point. While the down side is that this particular spot is always filled with people, it’s consistent for a reason. Any of the coves in the area are a great place to dunk in and see what you can find. Just be careful and mindful of the currents.
Black Rock - Kaanapali
This is a great site because of the sandy beach, ease of entry into the water, and super chill current. The downside is that all of these made a killer place to build resorts, so expect a crowd basically all the time. The upside to development is the restrooms and showers available to the public. If you’re just starting to snorkel, this is a great place to practice. Something to consider too if you’re out snorkeling alone, which I’ve already said is stupid, in case you haven’t read That Time I "Almost" Died Snorkeling.
Sunbathing
BEST BEACHES FOR
Pu’unoa (Baby) Beach - Lahaina
This is a wildly chill beach and has kind of become my go-to. While it is a pretty family friendly spot, and I absolutely despise families, it’s worth the squealing and crying for the silky soft sand, incredible views, extensive coral bed, and waveless water. In fact, the beach is so smooth you can bring a floaty to chill in. That’s really saying something when it comes to Maui beaches. This place doubles as a great snorkel spot. I saw this guy when I was there last in about two feet of water.
Hamoa Beach - Hana
Unlike most Maui beaches, this long stretch of shoreline is coral and rock free. One of the only places you can wade into the water barefoot. There are Hala trees everywhere providing ample coverage from the midday sun. The water is pristine because basically no one lives on that side of the island. Nothing ruins a day at the beach like dirty fucking water. The coup de grace: this beach comes with public restrooms and showers!
Oneloa (Big) Beach - Makena State Park
What’s not to love. Big Beach has a ton of shore, both length and depth. No one wants to be sitting right on top of each other on holiday. The sand is silky. The minus here are the massive shore breaks. While sometimes the water is calm, this place also doubles as agent surfer spot. And surfer’s need waves. Lifeguard towers have been added in recent years so heed the advice and swim with caution.
Adults
BEST BEACHES FOR
Little Beach - Makena State Park
This is kind of the only “official” nude beach on the island. While nudity is still illegal on Maui beaches, it is not enforced here. You can find Little Beach just up the gang way from Big Beach. It does not have it’s own access so park at Big Beach and walk north. It’s just on the other side of some rocks. You can’t miss it. You’ll know you’ve arrived if people are running around naked.
Kaihalulu Beach - Hana
Otherwise simply known as Red Sand Beach. As I detailed previously, this beach has some geographical issues. First, parkings a bitch because it doesn’t have a designated parking lot. Probably because it’s located on private land. If that doesn’t bother you, getting there is a little tricky too. I did it alone and can tell you it’s 1000% more terrifying crawling a lava rock wall above crashing waves all by yourself. If you’re about that life, this little gem is titty cover optional, but I’d suggest shying away from the full monty if you know what I mean. I have location details in my blog so if you’re interested, you have to look for it. Things don’t stay a secret if you add a link to them, do they?
Wild Animals
BEST BEACHES FOR
Ho’opika Beach - Paia
This is the first beach leaving Paia on the Hana Hwy. It gets a lot of surfers in the mornings but after the turtles have gorged themselves all morning on the other side of the island, they come ashore in the afternoons and take a nap. It’s not uncommon to see quite a few sunning themselves. You might even get lucky and see an elusive monk seal. Feel free to have a look but do not disturb them. Not only is is inhumane, it is against the law.
Olowalu Beach - Lahaina
You can’t miss this beach. On your way up to Lahaina, this is the beach that runs between the road and the water. While a lot of people choose to camp here, you’ll also notice a ton of homeless living there, making it undesirable for some. But the location can’t be beat. Not only is this a killer spot to see humpback whales between December and March, turtles like to hang out there too.
Notoriety
BEST BEACHES FOR
Wai’anapanapa State Park - Hana
The infamous black sand beach. It’s become so popular you have to make reservations. It costs $10 a car plus $5 per person non-resident. Reservations are only open for four weeks before a date and sell out fast so I’d suggest putting a reminder in your calendar. You can also rent a very no frills cabin in the park for $100 a night with a two night minimum. For more information and to make a reservation, click here.